Relief Small Vessel Machinery Operator - Victoria

Body

Download PDF: Relief Small Vessel Machinery Operator - Victoria

About the Company

The Pacific Pilotage Authority (PPA) is a federal Crown Corporation based in downtown Vancouver, providing safe and reliable marine pilotage services across the coastal waters of British Columbia, including the Fraser River. We play a vital role in Canada’s economy by ensuring the safe movement of ships through some of the most challenging waterways in the world. For more information about PPA, please visit https://www.ppa.gc.ca/welcome.

As a progressive, nimble, and collaborative organization, we operate coastwide dispatch and launch stations in Vancouver, Victoria, Steveston, and Prince Rupert. We are proud to offer:

  • A mission driven work environment where your contributions have a real and visible impact.
  • A diverse and talented team of approximately 120 professionals.
  • The opportunity to join one of BC’s top employers.


Job Description

Pacific Pilotage Authority is seeking a Relief Small Vessel Machinery Operator (SVMO) for our Victoria launch operations. The successful applicant should have a flexible schedule to cover shifts as needed, sometimes on short notice.


This position is offered subject to the terms and conditions of the current Canadian Merchant Service Guild agreement.

  • Starting wage is $61.36/hour (wage during training period, paid at 75%).
  • Relief employees receive 16% of gross salary, exclusive of holiday pay and overtime, in lieu of benefits and an additional 6% in lieu of vacation time.
  • Successful candidates will be required to work shifts; a full shift is 12 hours.
  • A list of the duties and qualifications are available on request.
  • The successful individual must be available on short notice for relief opportunities.

Duties

  • Reporting to the Director of Operations, SVMOs are responsible for assisting the Launch Master with ensuring safe pilot transfers.
  • Responsible for the performance of maintenance and seamanship duties on board a Pacific Pilotage Authority launch and at a launch station.
  • Assist in the performance of boat maintenance as directed by the Launch Master and Shore Engineer.
  • Perform pre-departure/daily checks including checking fluid/oil levels and general inspection of main engines and engine spaces. Perform maintenance routines as per PPA maintenance system.
  • Performance of seamanship duties; including ropework, operation of deck machinery/appliances, look-out and “watchkeeping” duties and basic boat husbandry.
  • Performance of marine emergency duties, including recovery of a person in the water, first-aid and the operation and maintenance of life-saving equipment.
  • Small boat handling, including docking, and maneuvering to recover a person from the water in heavy sea conditions.
  • Performance of maintenance and husbandry duties of the dock and shore facilities.
  • Other duties related to the operations of pilot transfers and the maintenance of property and equipment belonging to the Pacific Pilotage Authority.
  • Performance of pilot-transfer duties during the pilot boarding or boarding-off of a vessel.

Requirements

  • A valid certificate for Small Vessel Machinery Operator Certificate of Competency (unrestricted), Marine First Aid, Domestic Vessel Safety (DVS) or equivalent, and Transport Canada Medical are prerequisites.
  • Candidates must pass a medical drug and alcohol screening, as well as a Police Information Check in line with a recruitment process for a safety sensitive position.
  • It is essential that the successful candidate is a reliable self-starter and team player who is able to maintain calm in stressful situations.
  • The successful individual must be available on short notice for relief opportunities.

Accommodation

  • Pacific Pilotage Authority is committed to removing barriers to employment. If you require any accommodation throughout the recruitment and hiring process, please let us know. All information received in relation to accommodation will be kept confidential.

Employment Equity

  • Pacific Pilotage Authority is committed to building a diverse workforce and inclusive work environment. We are committed to employment equity and strongly encourage applications from the four designated equity seeking groups (women, Indigenous Peoples, persons with disabilities, and visible minorities).

How to Apply

  • Please forward a cover letter and resume to hr@ppa.gc.ca by end of day February 28, 2026. 
     
Background Image